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Reading literacy . . .
30. The term “reading literacy” is used instead of the term “reading” because it is likely to convey to
a non-
expert audience more precisely what the survey is measuring. “Reading” is often understood
as simply decoding, or even reading aloud, whereas the intention of this survey is to measure
much broader and more encompassing constructs. Reading literacy includes
a wide range of
cognitive and linguistic competencies, from basic decoding to knowledge of words, grammar and
larger linguistic and textual structures for comprehension, as well as integration of meaning with
one’s knowledge about the world. It also includes metacognitive competencies: the awareness of
and ability to use a variety of appropriate strategies when processing texts. Metacognitive
competencies are activated when
readers think about, monitor and adjust their reading activity for
a particular goal.
31. The term “literacy” typically refers to an individual’s knowledge of a subject or field, although it
has been most closely associated wit
h an individual’s ability to learn, use and communicate written
and printed information. This definition seems close to the notion that the term “reading literacy” is
intended to express in this framework: the active, purposeful and functional application of reading
in a range of situations and for various purposes. PISA assesses a wide range of students. Some
of these students will go on to a
university, possibly to pursue an academic or professional career;
some will pursue further studies in preparation for joining the labour force; and some will enter the
workforce directly upon completion of secondary schooling. Regardless of their academic or
labour-force aspirations, reading literacy will be important to their active participation in their
community and economic and personal life.
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